Reviews

A Scanner Darkly Graphic Novel by Richard Linklater, Laura Dumm, Philip K. Dick, Gary Dumm

bloodravenlib's review

3.0

In the interest of disclosure, I have to say that I have not read the original novel or seen the film yet. However, I still liked this one. I also borrowed it from my local public library branch.

See my note on it in my blog here:

[http://gypsylibrarian.blogspot.com/2007/06/short-booknotes-on-graphic-novels-14.html]

ashleyholcomb's review

challenging dark emotional mysterious tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? No
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

carol26388's review

3.0

I gave this a go after reading the full-length novel. It provided some insight into the book, distilling some of the major points down to a few scenes. I found myself wondering if I'd enjoy watching the movie, especially with casting including Keanu Reeves, Robert Downey Jr. and Woody Harrelson, favorite Hollywood poster-boys for drug use (I can't speak to whether Keanu does, he just acts like it).

Spoiler

And yes, I know Winona Ryder was in it; I'm forgetting that part on purpose. The oddest note in the graphic was discovering they made Donna a blonde

Apparently, these are stills from the animated version of the live-action film, but instead of being a detriment for me, I found the the translation of the actors' expression impressive. Scenes with the scramble suit were initially a visual challenge, but then became a storyline challenge when Fred was talking with his superior, also scrambled. I did like the way the comic could capture a little more of the surrounding atmosphere; it made the surroundings come to life and build a depth that I think was assumed in the book. They were also able to better capture the emotional tone of certain settings, whether a trip starting to go bad or a car out of control. I generally liked the way the panels were arranged and found the choices suited the scenes.

Overall, a fun companion to the novel and movie.